Photo of Karen Williams, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Karen Williams
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E  (Online Only)
Issues I work with are mid-life transitions, relationship and attachment issues, anxiety, depression, loss/bereavement, spiritual issues and emotional distress.
DREAMS are a creative way to work with the unconscious; to be creative means to bring something into being, and the unconscious is a source for that new being. We are not just what we know of ourselves. Our suffering has meaning and if we are struggling or in crisis this can be the catalyst for change. Carl Jung (1875-1961), tells us that "certain types of pain...are symbolically meaningful. This is one way the unconscious expresses itself." Our psyche is a part of nature and dreams come from that nature to speak to us in a metaphoric language.
Issues I work with are mid-life transitions, relationship and attachment issues, anxiety, depression, loss/bereavement, spiritual issues and emotional distress.
DREAMS are a creative way to work with the unconscious; to be creative means to bring something into being, and the unconscious is a source for that new being. We are not just what we know of ourselves. Our suffering has meaning and if we are struggling or in crisis this can be the catalyst for change. Carl Jung (1875-1961), tells us that "certain types of pain...are symbolically meaningful. This is one way the unconscious expresses itself." Our psyche is a part of nature and dreams come from that nature to speak to us in a metaphoric language.
(587) 905-5455 View (587) 905-5455
Photo of Ken Creegan, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Ken Creegan
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BACAP, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Sometimes our thoughts and feelings become unmanageable without help. Anxiety, stress and depression are just some of the ways our mind tells us that something isn't right, or the ways we've coped in the past aren't quite working as well as they did. Change can be unsettling and distressing, but it can also be healing, fulfilling and hopeful. I provide a therapeutic space that is safe, warm and engaging where you can engage in your process, at whatever pace you need.
Sometimes our thoughts and feelings become unmanageable without help. Anxiety, stress and depression are just some of the ways our mind tells us that something isn't right, or the ways we've coped in the past aren't quite working as well as they did. Change can be unsettling and distressing, but it can also be healing, fulfilling and hopeful. I provide a therapeutic space that is safe, warm and engaging where you can engage in your process, at whatever pace you need.
(587) 974-3350 View (587) 974-3350
Photo of Andrea Matheson, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Andrea Matheson
Psychologist, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Andrea Offers services in both Alberta and Quebec. For the past 18 years, Andrea has been working with individuals dealing with an array of personal issues. Some examples include: marriage discord, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, PTSD, substance abuse disorders (SUD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD), personality disorders and eating disorders. Andrea Matheson provides telehealth services in both Alberta and Quebec, Canada.
Andrea Offers services in both Alberta and Quebec. For the past 18 years, Andrea has been working with individuals dealing with an array of personal issues. Some examples include: marriage discord, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, PTSD, substance abuse disorders (SUD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD), personality disorders and eating disorders. Andrea Matheson provides telehealth services in both Alberta and Quebec, Canada.
(587) 400-1655 View (587) 400-1655
Photo of Dr. Diana Armstrong, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Dr. Diana Armstrong
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5P
Finding lasting relief from difficulties like depression, anxiety, trauma, or medically unexplained physical symptoms (e.g., IBS, tension headaches, or pain) can be difficult. Perhaps you have been trying to address your issues via coping skills, self-help books, or by accessing various health care providers. If you continually feel stuck, are in pain, or are confused about why your symptoms aren’t improving, you might be ready to look into the underlying emotional factors contributing to your symptoms. Together, we can understand and address the roots of your problems so that you can stop suffering and start living.
Finding lasting relief from difficulties like depression, anxiety, trauma, or medically unexplained physical symptoms (e.g., IBS, tension headaches, or pain) can be difficult. Perhaps you have been trying to address your issues via coping skills, self-help books, or by accessing various health care providers. If you continually feel stuck, are in pain, or are confused about why your symptoms aren’t improving, you might be ready to look into the underlying emotional factors contributing to your symptoms. Together, we can understand and address the roots of your problems so that you can stop suffering and start living.
(587) 849-0881 View (587) 849-0881
Photo of Paul Bianchini, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Paul Bianchini
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6C
Challenges in life are inevitable, but there are many choices in how to face them. Paul Bianchini is a counseling psychologist working in the Edmonton area and provides psychotherapy services for people struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, relationships, marriage issues, occupational stress, crisis intervention, trauma, grief and loss, body image issues, self-esteem, health psychology, and addiction issues. Call 780-757-5535 - Prairie Owl Psychology and Counselling for a prompt and professional response.
Challenges in life are inevitable, but there are many choices in how to face them. Paul Bianchini is a counseling psychologist working in the Edmonton area and provides psychotherapy services for people struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, relationships, marriage issues, occupational stress, crisis intervention, trauma, grief and loss, body image issues, self-esteem, health psychology, and addiction issues. Call 780-757-5535 - Prairie Owl Psychology and Counselling for a prompt and professional response.
(587) 413-5247 View (587) 413-5247
Photo of Dr. Debbie Grove, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Dr. Debbie Grove
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5J
I specialize in midlife well-being and have extensive research and clinical knowledge about midlife depression, stress, workplace issues, and the challenges people face (e.
Welcome, I am Dr. Debbie Grove, a Registered Psychologist in Edmonton. For over ten years, I have been working with individuals, students, and couples, helping them make changes in their lives for a healthier, happier life. I work collaboratively to develop a customized treatment plan. My integrative approach to therapy has helped people manage depression, anxiety, stress, relationships and has helped them become more confident and healthy in their daily living. Overcoming fear, worry, and past issues helps lift barriers to a healthier, happier life.
I specialize in midlife well-being and have extensive research and clinical knowledge about midlife depression, stress, workplace issues, and the challenges people face (e.
Welcome, I am Dr. Debbie Grove, a Registered Psychologist in Edmonton. For over ten years, I have been working with individuals, students, and couples, helping them make changes in their lives for a healthier, happier life. I work collaboratively to develop a customized treatment plan. My integrative approach to therapy has helped people manage depression, anxiety, stress, relationships and has helped them become more confident and healthy in their daily living. Overcoming fear, worry, and past issues helps lift barriers to a healthier, happier life.
(587) 871-5570 View (587) 871-5570
Photo of Sadique Ahmed Pathan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonton, AB
Sadique Ahmed Pathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6V
Many people who struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress, feel embarrassed or stigmatized. Others who struggle with domestic violence, relationship issues, faith based struggles, addiction issues, suicidal ideations, and anger management issues feel alone and unsure of who they can speak to. The foundation of my counselling practice is being compassionate and non-judgmental. I provide a person-centred practice which is about the client defining their own goals. I assure my clients they are in a safe place, confidentiality upheld, validated, and their life story and experiences honoured.
Many people who struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress, feel embarrassed or stigmatized. Others who struggle with domestic violence, relationship issues, faith based struggles, addiction issues, suicidal ideations, and anger management issues feel alone and unsure of who they can speak to. The foundation of my counselling practice is being compassionate and non-judgmental. I provide a person-centred practice which is about the client defining their own goals. I assure my clients they are in a safe place, confidentiality upheld, validated, and their life story and experiences honoured.
(825) 250-3352 View (825) 250-3352
Photo of Rivers Edge Counselling Centre, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Rivers Edge Counselling Centre
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5V
We specialize in helping people find a therapist who is the right 'fit' for them. We have created a team of psychologists & counsellors who will give the tools you need to rebuild & move forward with your life. We help women and men, couples, kids, teens, & families heal and grow through life's challenges and transitions. Our team specializes in treatments for anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship problems, grief and loss, addictions, stress management, life transition (including divorce, relocation and family/life stages), ADHD, behaviour problems and OCD with kids, as well as personal growth and development.
We specialize in helping people find a therapist who is the right 'fit' for them. We have created a team of psychologists & counsellors who will give the tools you need to rebuild & move forward with your life. We help women and men, couples, kids, teens, & families heal and grow through life's challenges and transitions. Our team specializes in treatments for anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship problems, grief and loss, addictions, stress management, life transition (including divorce, relocation and family/life stages), ADHD, behaviour problems and OCD with kids, as well as personal growth and development.
(587) 406-6039 View (587) 406-6039
Photo of Taylor McInnes, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Taylor McInnes
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5R
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, interpersonal/relationship difficulties, adjustment issues, personality disorders, and struggles with meaning, self-actualization, and career. I focus on helping clients better understand how past experiences, avoided emotions, and interpersonal patterns may be contributing to and maintaining their distress and suffering. Through building awareness in the context of a non-judgmental and unconditionally accepting therapeutic relationship, clients are able to develop more flexible and adaptive ways of coping, learn new ways of relating to others in their lives, develop skills, and experience deeper connection, acceptance, and respect for themselves and their emotions.
I work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, interpersonal/relationship difficulties, adjustment issues, personality disorders, and struggles with meaning, self-actualization, and career. I focus on helping clients better understand how past experiences, avoided emotions, and interpersonal patterns may be contributing to and maintaining their distress and suffering. Through building awareness in the context of a non-judgmental and unconditionally accepting therapeutic relationship, clients are able to develop more flexible and adaptive ways of coping, learn new ways of relating to others in their lives, develop skills, and experience deeper connection, acceptance, and respect for themselves and their emotions.
(587) 805-3408 View (587) 805-3408
Photo of Salma Mohiuddin, Registered Social Worker in Edmonton, AB
Salma Mohiuddin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5E  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience addressing anxiety, depression, life transitions and spirituality.
Are you looking for a safe and judgement free place to explore your past, present and future? Are you someone who wants to share their story, struggles, and hopes, but wants therapy to provide observable change? Are you someone who is hesitant to seek therapy because of the fear of feeling misunderstood or judged? Many of my clients say they were hesitant to seek therapy because they feared being judged or misunderstood. I work hard to create a safe, judgement free place for you to share your story so we can explore the tools for you move forward.
I have extensive experience addressing anxiety, depression, life transitions and spirituality.
Are you looking for a safe and judgement free place to explore your past, present and future? Are you someone who wants to share their story, struggles, and hopes, but wants therapy to provide observable change? Are you someone who is hesitant to seek therapy because of the fear of feeling misunderstood or judged? Many of my clients say they were hesitant to seek therapy because they feared being judged or misunderstood. I work hard to create a safe, judgement free place for you to share your story so we can explore the tools for you move forward.
(825) 258-5956 View (825) 258-5956
Photo of Maria Florencia Glover, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Maria Florencia Glover
Counsellor, BSc, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
Waitlist until March/2024. Life can sometimes feel overwhelming and many times we don't know what to do or how to reach out. Perhaps you're feeling stress, anxiety, depression? Having problems in life, marriage, or at work? Or you simply lost hope? I’m here for you. You’ve made it to the first step. Reaching out for help can be hard, and you are very brave for doing it. There's a way, happiness is possible. I know that right now it seems like there's no end, but I can promise there's light at the end of the tunnel. I'm here for you.
Waitlist until March/2024. Life can sometimes feel overwhelming and many times we don't know what to do or how to reach out. Perhaps you're feeling stress, anxiety, depression? Having problems in life, marriage, or at work? Or you simply lost hope? I’m here for you. You’ve made it to the first step. Reaching out for help can be hard, and you are very brave for doing it. There's a way, happiness is possible. I know that right now it seems like there's no end, but I can promise there's light at the end of the tunnel. I'm here for you.
(825) 250-3543 View (825) 250-3543
Photo of Andrea Laura Krygier, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Andrea Laura Krygier
Psychologist, RPSYH, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5V  (Online Only)
I specialize in the psychoanalytic treatment of various types of pains such as depression, anxiety, work stress, existential, ptsd, obsessive compulsive disorder, anger management, chronic pain and couple's challenges.
With almost 30 years of clinical experience, I approach each and every client with curiosity, warmth, empathy and respect I have an honest passion for people and can’t see myself doing any other thing other than helping others live meaningful lives I’m very sensitive to the fact that everyone is unique and it is of utmost Importance to tailor my work to each and everyone’s specific needs
I specialize in the psychoanalytic treatment of various types of pains such as depression, anxiety, work stress, existential, ptsd, obsessive compulsive disorder, anger management, chronic pain and couple's challenges.
With almost 30 years of clinical experience, I approach each and every client with curiosity, warmth, empathy and respect I have an honest passion for people and can’t see myself doing any other thing other than helping others live meaningful lives I’m very sensitive to the fact that everyone is unique and it is of utmost Importance to tailor my work to each and everyone’s specific needs
(587) 600-1158 View (587) 600-1158
Photo of Linda McFalls Ph.d(C) Clinical Therapist-Superv. Rsw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonton, AB
Linda McFalls Ph.d(C) Clinical Therapist-Superv. Rsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhC, LCSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
It isn’t necessary to stay stuck (or alone) in painful situations or challenging circumstances. Therapy/counselling provides an opportunity to uncover and discover new understandings, strengths and resiliencies in self (and others). Therapy provides a safe space to develop action plans to explore difficult life and relationship (couple, family/parenting, separation) issues or work/career concerns. Therapy also provides a safe space to explore and develop skills in managing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, OCD, ODD, etc. No problem is too big for therapy. Clinical Supervision is also available.
It isn’t necessary to stay stuck (or alone) in painful situations or challenging circumstances. Therapy/counselling provides an opportunity to uncover and discover new understandings, strengths and resiliencies in self (and others). Therapy provides a safe space to develop action plans to explore difficult life and relationship (couple, family/parenting, separation) issues or work/career concerns. Therapy also provides a safe space to explore and develop skills in managing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, OCD, ODD, etc. No problem is too big for therapy. Clinical Supervision is also available.
(587) 412-5239 View (587) 412-5239
Photo of Sabaria Ahmed, Pre-Licensed Professional in Edmonton, AB
Sabaria Ahmed
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5M
As a mental health therapist, I offer support for anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, trauma, and more.
If you're here, it means you've taken a significant step towards prioritizing your well-being and personal growth. I want to extend a warm and compassionate invitation to join me on a journey of self-exploration and healing. In my practice, I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space where you can freely express your thoughts and feelings. Together, we'll work collaboratively to address your challenges and discover effective coping strategies. Whether you're facing anxiety, relationship issues, or seeking greater self-awareness, I am here to support and guide you towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.
As a mental health therapist, I offer support for anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, trauma, and more.
If you're here, it means you've taken a significant step towards prioritizing your well-being and personal growth. I want to extend a warm and compassionate invitation to join me on a journey of self-exploration and healing. In my practice, I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space where you can freely express your thoughts and feelings. Together, we'll work collaboratively to address your challenges and discover effective coping strategies. Whether you're facing anxiety, relationship issues, or seeking greater self-awareness, I am here to support and guide you towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(825) 445-0027 View (825) 445-0027
Photo of Dr. Caroline Deutsch, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Dr. Caroline Deutsch
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6J
Now, as a psychologist, I am doing the same; exploring people's thoughts, feelings and actions in relation to anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss.
Coming from Ireland, I am down to earth with a sense of humour. I have been counselling people in a variety of health settings for more than a decade. People have many things going on in their lives. I help by listening, understanding and encouraging people to unpack what they are experiencing and to consider other perspectives.
Now, as a psychologist, I am doing the same; exploring people's thoughts, feelings and actions in relation to anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss.
Coming from Ireland, I am down to earth with a sense of humour. I have been counselling people in a variety of health settings for more than a decade. People have many things going on in their lives. I help by listening, understanding and encouraging people to unpack what they are experiencing and to consider other perspectives.
(825) 250-0647 View (825) 250-0647
Photo of Nicolas Allen, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Nicolas Allen
Psychologist, MA, BPE, MES
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5N
My areas of special interest and expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Sport Psychology, Concussion Treatment and Baseline Testing, Eating Disorders, and weight loss.
There are problems . . . and there are solutions, and sometimes it's just nice to talk through them! I am not your typical psychologist. I don't work in a stuffy office and you won't lay down on a couch. I help you develop the skills and abilities necessary to move forward and conquer your problems. By helping people identify the things they wish to have changed in their lives and further develop the skills they already have, I help clients construct a concrete vision for themselves and make that vision a reality. I help you find solutions!
My areas of special interest and expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Sport Psychology, Concussion Treatment and Baseline Testing, Eating Disorders, and weight loss.
There are problems . . . and there are solutions, and sometimes it's just nice to talk through them! I am not your typical psychologist. I don't work in a stuffy office and you won't lay down on a couch. I help you develop the skills and abilities necessary to move forward and conquer your problems. By helping people identify the things they wish to have changed in their lives and further develop the skills they already have, I help clients construct a concrete vision for themselves and make that vision a reality. I help you find solutions!
(587) 400-1203 View (587) 400-1203
Photo of Latoya Taneisha Reid, Registered Social Worker in Edmonton, AB
Latoya Taneisha Reid
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, Dip Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Difficult days are inevitable on life’s journey. You may be having challenges in a relationship, struggling to cope with a past or recent trauma, be a victim of abuse, bullying or race based trauma, going through a divorce or separation, worried about your relationship with children or other family members, experiencing anxiety, self-doubt, depression, stress, grief or just going through a difficult period of your life. Whatever the challenge or struggle, you don’t have to suffer in silence. IT IS OK TO NOT BE OK!! Reassuringly, there is collaborative support available to get you through.
Difficult days are inevitable on life’s journey. You may be having challenges in a relationship, struggling to cope with a past or recent trauma, be a victim of abuse, bullying or race based trauma, going through a divorce or separation, worried about your relationship with children or other family members, experiencing anxiety, self-doubt, depression, stress, grief or just going through a difficult period of your life. Whatever the challenge or struggle, you don’t have to suffer in silence. IT IS OK TO NOT BE OK!! Reassuringly, there is collaborative support available to get you through.
(587) 207-5720 View (587) 207-5720
Photo of Carissa Cornfield, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Carissa Cornfield
Psychologist, BEd, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Welcome! First let's acknowledge the step you’ve already taken towards your healing just by searching for a counsellor that's right for you. If that's me, I truly look forward to beginning this journey with you! While skilled in working with a variety of mental health challenges, I'm most experienced working with those related to childhood experiences, abuse, trauma (including sexual abuse), relational ruptures, & loss. These impacts can include shame & self-criticism, guilt, anxiety, depression, overwhelming or muted emotion, perfectionism, over-working, body image, self-esteem, and boundary challenges, and more.
Welcome! First let's acknowledge the step you’ve already taken towards your healing just by searching for a counsellor that's right for you. If that's me, I truly look forward to beginning this journey with you! While skilled in working with a variety of mental health challenges, I'm most experienced working with those related to childhood experiences, abuse, trauma (including sexual abuse), relational ruptures, & loss. These impacts can include shame & self-criticism, guilt, anxiety, depression, overwhelming or muted emotion, perfectionism, over-working, body image, self-esteem, and boundary challenges, and more.
(587) 715-0121 View (587) 715-0121
Photo of Lisa Marie Rowse, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Lisa Marie Rowse
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6G
Lisa's main interests are in helping people struggling with relationship difficulties, sexual health issues, life-stress, anxiety, depression, religious trauma and spiritual matters.
Lisa has a passion for helping people through difficult life circumstances and is honoured to be a part of that process. She has found the most important part of therapy to be the relationship built with her client. It is through this therapeutic relationship where she has seen incredible change, growth and transformation. Lisa believes that a warm non-judgmental environment lays the foundation for her client to achieve personal growth and healing. She works primarily from a person-centred approach, but utilizes a variety of methods and techniques, including attachment theory, existentialism and cognitive behavioural therapy.
Lisa's main interests are in helping people struggling with relationship difficulties, sexual health issues, life-stress, anxiety, depression, religious trauma and spiritual matters.
Lisa has a passion for helping people through difficult life circumstances and is honoured to be a part of that process. She has found the most important part of therapy to be the relationship built with her client. It is through this therapeutic relationship where she has seen incredible change, growth and transformation. Lisa believes that a warm non-judgmental environment lays the foundation for her client to achieve personal growth and healing. She works primarily from a person-centred approach, but utilizes a variety of methods and techniques, including attachment theory, existentialism and cognitive behavioural therapy.
(587) 419-6971 View (587) 419-6971
Photo of Sasha Campbell, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Sasha Campbell
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E  (Online Only)
I use a psychodynamic approach that helps to reprocess themes and negative cognitions that may have begun in childhood. I utilize inner child work / shadow work, EMDR, and mindfulness which helps to process depression, anxiety, trauma, C-PTSD, developmental traumas, narcissistic abuse, grief and bereavement, as well as general life transitions.
I use a psychodynamic approach that helps to reprocess themes and negative cognitions that may have begun in childhood. I utilize inner child work / shadow work, EMDR, and mindfulness which helps to process depression, anxiety, trauma, C-PTSD, developmental traumas, narcissistic abuse, grief and bereavement, as well as general life transitions.
(587) 907-8944 View (587) 907-8944

See more therapy options for Edmonton

Depression Counsellors

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognise and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioural activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.